How to Remove the Rubber Trap in a Dishwasher

The dishwasher has a rubber trap in the bottom at the drain. This trap keeps the drain from clogging. Removing and cleaning the trap is part of the basic maintenance for the dishwasher. If the dishwasher is draining slowly, it's time to clean the trap. The procedure is straightforward and requires only that you remove the bottom basket in the dishwasher to get to the trap. The average do-it-yourselfer can perform this maintenance without calling in a repair technician.

1

Open the dishwasher and remove the bottom wash basket. Remove any large food particles from inside the dishwasher.

2

Locate the dishwasher drain trap in the bottom of the dishwasher. It will look like a grate.

3

Lift the edge of the trap up and pull it off the bottom of the dishwasher. It will take a little effort since the trap snaps into place.

4

Locate the locking snap on the bottom spray arm and release it if the trap in your model dishwasher is in the center, as some are. The clip will be on the side of the spray arm shaft. Pull the spray arm straight up to remove it.

5

Remove the trap from the center of the dishwasher by pulling it up. Clean the trap in warm soapy water. Use a scrub brush to loosen any dried-on food particles.

6

Install the food trap into the dishwasher, pushing firmly at the corners to lock it in place. If your dishwasher is one with the center trap, replace the spray arm and push it on the shaft until you feel it snap into place. Install the bottom wash basket into the dishwasher.

Things You Will Need

About the Author

John Rose has been writing professionally since 1981. Now contributing to various online publications, he specializes in auto repair, home maintenance and similar topics. Rose studied English at Frostburg State University.